Health Information - Test

Endoscopy

Definition

Endoscopy is a way of looking inside the body using a flexible tube that has a small camera on the end of it. This instrument is called an endoscope.

How the test is performed

There are many types of endoscopes. Each one is named according to the organs or areas they are used to examine.

For example:

Arthroscope: Used to look directly in the joints

Bronchoscope: Used to look in the airways and lungs

Cystoscope: Used to view the inside of the bladder

Laparoscope: Used to look directly at the ovaries, appendix, or other abdominal organs

An endoscope is passed through a natural body opening or small cut. For example, a laparoscope is inserted through small surgical cuts in the pelvic or belly area. In men, a urinary tract endoscope is passed through the opening of the urethra.

A gastrointestinal endoscope may be inserted through the mouth or anus. An ultrasound probe can be added to a gastrointestinal endoscope. This is called an endoscopic ultrasound. Depending on the area of interest, this device can also be passed through the mouth or anus.

Small instruments can be inserted through an endoscope and used to take samples of suspicious tissues.

This article offers a general overview on endoscopy. For more information, see the specific procedure:

How to prepare for the test

Ask your health care provider if you need to do anything to prepare for your endoscopy. You may be asked not to eat or drink before most types of endoscopy. Before an examination of the lower gastrointestinal tract, you may be asked to use enemas or laxatives to clear out the large intestine.

How the test will feel

You may be given medicine to help you relax and possibly fall asleep. This is called sedation. With the right sedation, you should have little, if any, discomfort.

Sedation is usually not given to people having an endoscopic ultrasound of the rectum. The endoscope will make you feel like you need to move the bowels (pass stool), but it should not cause any pain.

Why the test is performed

There are many different reasons to perform an endoscopy. For example, your doctor may order an endoscope if you have bleeding, pain, difficulty swallowing, and a change in bowel habits. Colonoscopy can also be done to screen for colon polyps and colon cancer.

What the risks are

Reactions to the sedation can occur, although they are rare. For this reason your breathing, blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen level will be monitored during the procedure.

Special considerations

Endoscopies also can be used to treat certain diseases or conditions. For example, tumors can be removed or bleeding from lesions can be stopped.

Review Date:
2/20/2011
Reviewed By:
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.